Sam Gerrits runner-up at 2026 Dutch National Championships

UNSQUASHABLE player Sam Gerrits delivered another impressive national campaign after reaching his second final at the 2026 NK Squash Championships, held at the Frans Otten Stadion in Amsterdam, before eventually being denied the title by top seed Rowan Damming.

Sam showed resilience and growing authority throughout the tournament, navigating a demanding draw to secure his place in the showpiece match. He began his campaign with a dominant opening-round performance, dispatching Stefan MG Euijen for the loss of just two points to set the tone for the tournament.

The quarter-finals however provided a sterner examination as Sam was pushed to five games by sixth seed Stan Al. After slipping behind midway through the contest, the second seed responded superbly, regaining control with a commanding fourth game before sealing the decider 11-3 to book his semi-final place.

Momentum firmly on his side, Sam produced one of his most complete displays of the championships in the last four, overcoming seventh seed Knut Hogervorst in straight games. Crisp attacking squash and disciplined movement saw him close out the semi-final 11-8 11-5 11-6, confirming back-to-back appearances in the Dutch National final and underlining his consistency on the domestic stage.

In the final, Sam came up against the formidable challenge of top seed and defending champion Rowan Damming. Despite a competitive opening game, which Damming edged 12-10, the top seed gradually asserted his authority, capitalising on key moments to claim an 11-8 11-5 victory and lift the national title. While the final scoreline favoured Damming, Sam once again demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level in the Netherlands.

Reaching a second Dutch National final represents another significant milestone for Sam and confirms his status as one of the country’s leading players. With his performances in Amsterdam, the UNSQUASHABLE payer has laid strong foundations for the remainder of the season and will take confidence from another deep run at the NK Squash Championships.

2026 NK Squash Championships, Frans Otten Stadion, Amsterdam
1st Round: [2] Sam Gerrits beat Stefan MG Euijen [14] 11-1 11-0 11-1
Quarter-Finals: [2] Sam Gerrits beat Stan Al [6] 11-8 9-11 7-11 11-1 11-3
Semi-Finals: [2] Sam Gerrits beat Knut Hogervorst [7] 11-8 11-5 11-6
Final: [2] Sam Gerrits lost to Rowan Damming [1] 12-10 11-8 11-5